Fabrizio Romano provided updates on N’Golo Kante’s potential departure from Chelsea. Thereby indicating that the situation is progressing rapidly. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, N’Golo Kante is currently holding meetings with representatives from Saudi clubs in London today. Both Al Ittihad and Al Nassr sent delegations to the capital to engage in discussions with the midfielder. Currently, his contract with Chelsea is not valid anymore.
There are notable nuances within the Tweet, suggesting that a potential deal was close back in March. That indeed appeared likely. N’Golo Kante’s preference has always been to remain in London with Chelsea. And at one stage, it seemed like a mere formality for him to do so.
Allowing players’ contracts to run down to expiration does expose clubs to such situations. Meanwhile lucrative financial offers from teams like those in Saudi Arabia can overshadow what Chelsea may be willing to offer. This becomes even more apparent considering Kante’s recent injury record. This has seen him struggle to stay fit for an entire season.
What deal did Kante get?
According to Romano, the reported figures of €100m, including image rights, are deemed to be beyond Chelsea’s reach for a player like Kante, who has had injury concerns and cannot be relied upon for a full season. Such financial demands may make it challenging for Chelsea to pursue a deal for the midfielder.
Meanwhile, the potential departure of Kante indeed leaves a significant void in Chelsea’s midfield. Especially considering the expected departures of other players. It may require the club to consider bringing in two new signings to reinforce and restore solidity to the midfield unit for the upcoming season. Hence, the management will need to identify suitable replacements to ensure the team’s balance and performance are healthy.
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